Ryan Poles Revealed Unexpected Wrinkle To #1 Pick Trade Plans

The Chicago Bears maintained their stance from a few months ago. Justin Fields remains the starting quarterback until further notice. They don't plan to spend like crazy in free agency. Last but not least, they are more than open to trading the #1 overall pick. GM Ryan Poles didn't try to hide the possibility. During his presser at the scouting combine in Indianapolis, he admitted the ideal scenario is to move the pick for the right offer. He sounded optimistic this is something that can and ultimately will happen.

Then the GM added an extra layer to the intrigue. He stated there is a possibility, under the right circumstances, that the Bears might get a deal done shortly after the combine.

“There are some scenarios that might benefit us to move before free agency opens, potentially, but again when we get back with all the information that we’ve gathered from here I think we’ll have a better direction,” Poles said. “There’s scenarios where you could add players as well, potentially, which again, gives you some clarity on what you want to do in the draft and free agency.”

This would be an unorthodox move. Big deals involving top three selections have never happened so early in an off-season. Typical trades wait for at least late March and, more often, early April. Poles appears to think there are some benefits to getting it done early. Draft insider Matt Miller believes he's onto something.

Ryan Poles will make the move if he gets the offer he wants.

Nobody knows exactly what his demands are. It's a safe assumption he seeks at least one future 1st round pick, probably two depending on how far he would have to drop. The Bears GM knows he has tons of leverage. Houston sits at #2 overall. They're going to take a quarterback. If another team doesn't want to risk the guy they covet going to the Texans, then their only option is grabbing the #1 spot. Poles will give it to them, but only if they're ready to pay for it. Somebody will, from the sound of things.

Adam Schefter indicated the interest in the pick is high. Ian Rapoport confirmed the same. With the veteran quarterback market looking weak, the draft is the only avenue for most teams in the top 10. There is a strong possibility they will have to settle for their third or fourth options since two quarterbacks are almost certain to go at #1 and #2. Do they want to be the ones left holding the bag? That is why Ryan Poles controls this narrative. Desperation is a regular thing when the draft is involved.